We know. For a lot of us, there’s not much worse than moving. Packing all those boxes, loading up a truck, or hiring movers to do it for you. And, then getting settled in your new digs. Unpacking takes forever and the whole moving process is stressful and time-consumer. As you get older and accumulate more stuff (let alone have kids!) it only gets more complex.
OK, there are certainly benefits to moving… into a bigger place… closer to work or things you do for fun, etc. And also one very fun thing can be moving to a new city or state entirely — where you’ll have to live without your old neighborhood, your old brunch spots, and your old friends to help you unpack. Now that sounds both exciting and stressful!
But, if you’re making the move across the country or across the state, we thought we would put together a list of some useful advice to make your big move successful. We’ll level the logistical tips to another article and focus on some of the key steps you should take once you arrive in your new city.
Do lots of fun stuff right now!
Whether or not you have someone coming with you, you should try to take advantage of your first few days and weeks in a new city by doing everything you possibly can. While it is perfectly normal to want to hold off going to that fascinating museum or fantastic park until you have visitors or meet new friends, it is better to go when you first arrive for a number of reasons.
First off, you never know when real life will swoop in and you’ll be saddled with obligations like work. In fact, it’s almost a certainty that once you settle into your new routine of work and life, you may struggle to find time to do some of those fun things that initially interested you about your new city.
You also get to know your new city best by experiencing all it has to offer. Get out there and check out new restaurants, tourist sites, and local activities. There is no better way to immerse yourself and become familiar with the city than by going out and experiencing it.
Get a membership to a gym.
When I relocate to a new city, this is one of the first things I do. Although I am aware that not everyone enjoys going to the gym, getting a membership (and using it!) will help you succeed as you begin your new life adventure. Even if you aren’t a big exercise fanatic (I admit it, I am), a gym is also a good way to get to know new folks.
If you are a fan of the gym and getting exercise, you’ll want to get this worked into your new routine right off the bat. Exercise not only boosts your energy and makes you feel great, but it can also act as a release for any loneliness you may be experiencing and prevents you from always wanting to come home from work and sit alone.
Try to let go of your former residence.
OK, we’re not saying you should cut ties with family and friends from your old city, or forget what you liked about your last home. All those connections (the positive ones anyway) should stay a part of your life, even if you don’t see them much, if ever, anymore. All those experiences brought you to your new home, so appreciate what you can take away from the past and let it help prepare you for your new adventure.
Try to concentrate on creating a life for yourself in your new home, rather than dwelling on what you left behind. It’s natural to have second thoughts or think that you may never make the same friends or have some of the same great experiences in your new city. Even if you are incredibly excited about your new home, it’s normal to have these thoughts.
But, no matter how wonderful a place is, if you sit and spend too much time thinking about everything you are missing, it will be nearly impossible to settle down there. So, start embracing your new reality.
